Michael (Mike) Andrew Soller was not just any man, but a remarkable legend who lived life to the fullest. Born on April 5, 1948, in Ratcliff, Arkansas, he was the cherished son of Edwin Jake Soller and Virginia Marie (Manning) Soller. He died April 4, 2025, at the Clinton Veterans Center.
Mike’s dedication to his country was evident when he joined the Army as a young man, serving in the Vietnam War. Afterward, he met Teresa, whose love and support helped him pursue higher education while overcoming the trauma of war. She was his cheerleader, especially during a time when Vietnam Veterans were mistreated. With her support, Mike graduated from college and then joined the Air Force as a commissioned officer, serving with honor for 20 years in various roles – talk about dedication!
Mike adored Teresa 53 adventurous years, raising a family and sharing a love that could make a romantic comedy blush. Mike was immensely proud of his kids, Cyndi Soller, Amy Carbajal (her husband Don), Michael Soller (his wife Melissa), and Annie Johnson (her husband Dustin). He would brag about their achievements to anyone who would listen – seriously, even the dog knew their accomplishments.
Mike made it his life’s mission to help others, particularly those destined for military service.
Whether it was giving practical advice, donating to a church, helping with resumes and interviews, or even offering a new pair of shoes, he had a knack for making people’s lives better. He was notorious for charming folks with a warm greeting, a contagious smile, advice for all sorts of issues, or surprising them with breakfast burritos from Braum’s – talk about the ultimate breakfast hero!
A shining example of his kindness was when he encountered a woman in a parking lot, distressed about her broken windshield due to a hailstorm and inability to pay for it. Without missing a beat, Mike arranged for her to get a new one. Acts of generosity were his superpower, and he left lasting impressions on everyone he helped.
Among his greatest joys were his children and grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papa Mike.” He was the guiding light for Kathleen Gregory (Cameron Gregory), Kerri Risenhoover (Michael Risenhoover), Jacob Carbajal, David Carbajal, Anneliese Soller, Ty Angel (Cassie Angel), Harley Angel, Michael Asher Soller, Benjamin Soller, Joseph Soller, Karlie Johnson, and Luke Johnson. Whether teaching them to drive, rewarding good grades, taking them to dances, or supporting their sporting endeavors, he was their ultimate fan.
Mike’s desire to help others persisted throughout his life, starting from the moment he was born until the very end, where he assisted his friends, the employees and residents at the Veteran Center in Clinton, Oklahoma.
Mike Soller was an angel on earth, and now he continues his journey in heaven, probably organizing and paying for a breakfast burrito party up there. His legacy of kindness and generosity will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a true legend, a remarkable man, and his funny, loving, and helpful spirit will live on in our hearts.
In addition to his beautiful wife, children and grandchildren, Mike also leaves behind his wonderful siblings Julia Edna Olienyk, Karon Finn, Joan Becker, Steve Soller, and Susan Fustin. He is predeceased by his parents Edwin Jake Soller and Virginia Marie (Manning) Soller, his grandparents Frank and Annie Mary Soller and Marshall and Irene Manning and his beloved brother James Edwin Soller.
Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Calvary Cemetery in Shawnee.